Last month, we started our list of tips to keep your hardwood floor in tip-top shape. So, without further ado, here’s the rest of the list from Denver’s Choice Hardwood Floors
3. Don’t Mop Too Frequently
One mistake that is far too common among hardwood floor owners is their frequency of mopping. I know what you’re thinking: how could mopping my floors be a bad idea!? But it can be.
Too much mopping can strip wood of its natural oils. This can have them looking more worn instead of their natural best. The soaps and cleaners often associated with mopping have an additional stripping effect on natural wood.
To keep your floors looking healthy, it’s suggested that you mop about once a month. Start with a thorough sweep to get up the grit that can scratch your floors. Next, choose your solution.
- A mix of apple cider vinegar and warm water (never hot) is a good all-natural cleaning solution to mop with. And it’s healthy for you to have around the house, regardless.
- If you have an aversion to your home smelling of vinegar while cleaning, there are a number of cleaning products designed specifically for hardwood flooring. To produce the best results, follow the directions closely.
No matter what option you choose, you never want to use a wet mop. Instead, use a microfiber floor mop in conjunction with a spray bottle. Then mist as you make your way across your home’s hardwood floor.
4. But Sweep as Much as Possible
While mopping can be damaging to your floors, nothing is better for them than a good clean, sweep. Removing dust, dirt, and other detritus can be one of the most important tasks in keeping your hardwood floors looking new.
If you’re going to use a vacuum instead of a traditional broom, make sure you’re using one with a soft brush instead of a beater or brush bar — you don’t want to scratch or damage your floors as you’re trying to clean.
If you do accidentally create a scuff or a scratch, try treating it immediately with baking soda and a damp sponge. This will usually do the trick. Stains, on the other hand, are usually best treated with some form of commercial cleaner.
You can never sweep too little or too often: daily sweeping is one of the best defenses you have against the aging of your hardwood floor.
5. Don’t Worry About Hairline Cracks
Many homeowners become frantic when they notice a few hairline cracks appearing in the beautiful layout of their wooden floors. Does the appearance of these cracks mean you’ve done something seriously wrong?
No, and don’t worry. Whatever you do, don’t panic and attempt to fill them in. Dry heat during the winter causes wood flooring to shrink and contract. Thus these hairline cracks are born.
But when the summer heat comes on, the wood will expand again, filling in these cracks in a completely natural way. If you’re worried, using a humidifier in your home can help to keep the wood from shrinking.
Helping Your Hardwood Floor Last a Lifetime
If you’ve made the dive and installed hardwood floor in your home, it’s a decision you’ll likely want to enjoy as long as you live in that home. As such, it’s important to practice proper maintenance and upkeep so that your floors keep shining brightly.
The above tips and tricks are just a few ways to properly care for hardwood flooring. Need some more advice? Feel free to contact us anytime with any questions you have. The experts at Denver’s Choice Hardwood are always available to help.
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